Response prediction for horizontally loaded pile groups

Abstract

The load-deflection curve simulating the response of pile foundation under horizontal loading is indispensable for the design of piles to resist lateral loads. A static horizontal pile load test or even an adequate p-y analysis is capable to provide load-deflection curves for a single pile, which significantly differ from those of a pile group, depending on the particular layout and the level of loading. In this paper the results of a horizontal pile load test was initially used to adjust the soil parameters through a back-analysis. A parametric analysis was then carried out to numerically establish the load-deflection curve for various pile group arrangements. The reduction factors were quantitatively estimated and are given in normalised charts, while a relationship is proposed, giving the ability of establishing the load-deflection curve of any pile group layout in soft clayey soils, assuming that the load-deflection curve of the single pile is known.